Program Overview
The Master's (Master) in Community Development Policy and Practice at The University of New Hampshire is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at The University of New Hampshire. Designed for graduates and professionals seeking advanced expertise in interdisciplinary studies, the programme develops both theoretical foundations and applied skills essential for today's competitive environment.
Spanning 24 months, students engage with cutting-edge research, industry-relevant case studies, and practical projects. Instruction is delivered in English by research-active faculty with professional expertise.
The programme culminates in a dissertation or capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, research careers, and doctoral study in interdisciplinary studies.
Key Program Features
WHY CHOOSE UNH’S GRADUATE PROGRAM IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT?
The online MCD at UNH offers a hands-on learning experience built around real-world impact. Guided by expert practitioners, you’ll apply engagement and problem-solving techniques through a four-term capstone project in partnership with a community. This 14-month program expands your professional network while strengthening your capacity to lead impactful organizations.
Career Opportunities
POTENTIAL CAREERS
- Community or Economic Development Director
- Nonprofit or Business Development Manager
- Policy Analyst
- Project or Program Manager
- Community Engagement or Outreach Coordinator
- International Development Officer
- Recreation, Park, or Tourism Director
- Social Impact or Evaluation Specialist
Program Curriculum
Program Learning Outcomes
- Develop interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to integrate theory, policy, data collection, and analysis.
- Acquire an understanding of complex development issues and problems.
- Apply learning to real-world situations.
- Effectively communicate findings to various audiences both verbally and in writing.
Admission Requirements
Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements
- A minimum 3.2 cumulative GPA is required.*
- A minimum of 90 undergraduate credits must be completed prior to enrolling in graduate (800-level) courses.
- Streamlined Graduate School Application (two letters of recommendation; most standardized tests and application fee are waived).*
Accelerated Master's Requirements
- Students must attend a mandatory orientation session.
- Students must submit a special registration form each semester for dual-credit courses and note any DegreeWorks exceptions.
- Students may defer graduate matriculation for up to one year after earning their bachelor’s degree in most programs.
- See the Accelerated Master’s Catalog Policy and Accelerated Master’s Website for additional information and a list of programs. Note that some programs have additional requirements (e.g. higher-grade expectations) compared to the general policy.
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
Contact university
I have a sponsor who will be covering the tuition of my program. How should they make payments?
Please view tuition costs on our Funding Your Education webpage . Students receiving sponsorship by government agencies, companies, or other third parties should forward notices, bill authorizations, or other evidence of the sponsorships on official letterhead to:
UNH Business Services Attention: Third-Party Billing 11 Garrison Avenue Durham, NH 03824 Full details and instructions can be found on the UNH Business Services Payment Methods webpage . Program costs and technology fees are subject to change.
Course Fees: Specific courses may have additional course fees. Visit the course schedule for more information.
Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans are a form of federal aid available to Graduate Students. To apply, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .
Additional Financial Aid Information
Does this program offer any scholarships?
The Carsey School of Public Policy offers a limited number of tuition scholarships to students who have submitted the online application. For consideration of a Carsey School Scholarship, please submit your Online Scholarship Application Form by March 15. Qualified applicants will be notified within three weeks of application completion. We encourage students to leverage their scholarship by seeking additional aid opportunities.
What alternative funding opportunities are available?
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Does this program offer any scholarships?
The Carsey School of Public Policy offers a limited number of tuition scholarships to students who have submitted the online application. For consideration of a Carsey School Scholarship, please submit your Online Scholarship Application Form by March 15. Qualified applicants will be notified within three weeks of application completion. We encourage students to leverage their scholarship by seeking additional aid opportunities.
What alternative funding opportunities are available?
We strongly encourage you to look into other outside scholarship opportunities from organizations such as the World Bank, Fulbright, the Ford Foundation, or the American Association of University Women (among others). Domestic students are eligible for both private and federal loans. More detailed information can be found on the UNH Grad School’s Financial Aid webpage .
About University of New Hampshire
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States
University of New Hampshire is a distinguished institution of higher education committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and preparing students for leadership in their chosen fields....
University Profile- Language English
- Duration 24 months
- Credits 120 ECTS / 360 credits (2-year programme)